2 Suspects Arrested Over Disruption of UDA Meeting in Embu

Detectives in Embu have arrested two suspects in connection with the violent disruption of a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) delegates’ meeting at Nembure Grounds.

In a statement on Sunday, September 13, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the meeting was presided over by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and attended by senior national and county leaders before violence erupted, with groups of youths engaging security officers in running battles.

According to the DCI, the unrest left one person dead, several police officers injured and several motor vehicles torched before security officers restored order.

"Detectives in Embu have launched investigations into yesterday’s violent disruption of a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) delegates’ meeting at Nembure Grounds, with suspects already arrested as the crackdown on those behind the chaos gathers momentum," the statement read.

The DCI confirmed that two suspects had already been arrested over the incident as detectives continued to piece together the events that led to the unrest.

"Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing, with detectives pursuing additional suspects linked to the criminal acts committed during the unrest," the statement added.

The DCI warned that political disagreements could not be used to justify violence, destruction of property or attacks on law enforcement officers.

"The DCI warns that political differences must never become a licence for lawlessness. No grievance, disagreement or political affiliation places anyone above the law. Those who attack others, torch vehicles, destroy property, barricade public roads or assault police officers will be pursued, arrested and brought to justice," the statement concluded.

Elsewhere, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed a WhatsApp message he received from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki following chaos that disrupted the UDA meeting.

In an update on Sunday, September 13, Gachagua said Kindiki sent him the message after the incident, in which the Deputy President appeared to directly confront him over his political position and his decision not to work with the government.

In the message, Kindiki told Gachagua that he respected his decision but accused him of choosing to fight him directly, saying he was prepared for the political confrontation.

"My brother, I have always respected you and your decision not to work with us. However you have decided to fight me directly, but there is no problem, l am ready," the message read. 

Kindiki challenged Gachagua's assertion that he had no personal disagreement with him, arguing that the former Deputy President's problem was instead with President William Ruto and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire.

The Deputy President also maintained that the Embu meeting that was disrupted was his own political engagement, rather than an event convened by Ruto or Mbarire.

"No need to lie that you have no problem with me and that your problem is William Ruto and Cecily Mbarire. Today's meeting was not William Ruto's or Cecily Mbarire's; it was my meeting. It is okay," the message added.